Nilgiri tea growers are facing a persistent cost price crisis of green tea leaves which is continuously haunting small growers in the region.
About Nilgiri Tea:
- Nilgiri Tea is generally described as intensely aromatic, fragrant and flavored tea grown in the southern portion of the Western Ghats.
- It has been named after the Nilgiris or Blue Mountains where it is grown.
- It is mainly cultivated in Nilgiri district of Tamil Nadu and a small portion in Kerala and Karnataka.
- It was recognized with the Geographical Indication Tag in 2008.
- It is known for its delicate flavour and aroma, with notes of floral and citrus.
- It is a popular choice for iced tea and is often used in blends with other teas to create unique taste profiles.
- Required climatic conditions
- Altitude: Teas are grown at elevations ranging from 1000 to 2500 metre above sea level.
- Annual Rainfall:150 to 230cm.
- Soil: Well drained Laterite soil
- It is grown throughout the year in Nilgiri and it also experiences two monsoons per year.
- Issues
- Pricing issue: Price for Green Tea Leaves (GTL) is dwindling these days.
- It is facing issues like over-reliance on Russian exports, poor quality management, adulteration and local market negligence.